Friends, families, and neighbors gathered on Friscoville Avenue in Old Arabi recently as part of the Old Arabi Neighborhood Association’s Night Out Against Crime celebration. This event was one of dozens of outings held in communities throughout St. Bernard Parish aimed at strengthening community ties and their safety by bringing people together

Hot dogs, drinks, snacks, sweets and beautiful, fall weather were all part of the OANA gathering. Also on hand, were members of the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Department led by Mitch Perkins, an Arabi resident and the constable of the district. In addition to welcoming his fellow neighbors, Perkins also shared some crime prevention tips and addressed some neighborhood concerns, including speeding and littering.

Perkins was quick to point out that a safe community and an effective police department depend on community involvement.

“We can’t do our job without you,“ Perkins said.

“You are our eyes and ears. And you know better than anyone, if something doesn’t seem right. When that happens, you call us and we’ll be right there for you.”

This year’s National Night Out Against Crime marks the 30th year that this annual event has taken place. St. Bernard Sheriff Jimmy Pohlmann said that gathering as group sends a strong and unified message. “It makes a statement that you refuse to put up with crime in the area. It shows you care about your neighborhood,” Pohlmann said.

Pohlmann said anyone who sees something suspicious happening in their area should quickly call the Sheriff’s Office at 504.271.2501 and try to give a description of people and vehicles involved. Narcotics activity can be reported either to the same number or the sheriff’s drug hotline at 271-DOPE.

Maegan Dobson, an OANA Board member who helped organize the event, said it was good to see so many families out together. She also encouraged everyone to make the area a welcoming place for children on Halloween night.

“We're trying to encourage Old Arabi residents to put on the porch lights and give out treats, and to take their kids and grandkids trick-or-treating close to home instead of migrating to a big subdivision around the parish,” she said.

On behalf of the OANA Board, Dobson also congratulated the October yard of the month winner, Lynette and Jim DiFatta of Terry Drive.

“Go check out the DiFattas' lovely yard and festive Halloween decorations. We appreciate them and everyone doing their part to beautify our neighborhood, “ Dobson said.